Offshore Wind in the Northeast

In the coming years, a number of offshore wind projects and demonstration pilots are poised to commence construction along the coastal states of the Northeast. These projects have the potential to generate up to 5 gigawatts (GW) of zero carbon energy and displace the region's aging and highly polluting coal-fired power plants. The paper provides an overview of these important developments in the American offshore wind industry, including public policy, lease areas, commercial projects and marine infrastructure. Current efforts in the Northeast are discussed in light of ongoing efforts in Germany and Denmark. Special attention is given to the role that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center have played in stimulating this industry via the construction of critical infrastructure projects, working with offshore wind developers, and working to permit and lease offshore wind sites.